he late Red Auerbach was an aggressive, challenging and often explosive mentor who coached 11 Hall of Famers, including Bob Cousy and Bill Russell, and led Boston to 10 Eastern Division titles in 16 years.

"Red Auerbach was the consummate teacher, leader, and a true pioneer of the sport of basketball," said NBA Commissioner David Stern of the cigar-chomping coaching legend. "The NBA wouldn't be what it is today without him."

On Oct. 28, 2006, Auerbach died at the age of 89. But thanks to preserved footage of his teachings, Auerbach's basketball instructing can remain alive forever. Sit back, relax and learn as Auerbach teaches the basics of basketball.

Playing the ForwardBernard King shows you how to play the forward position.

D ReboundingRed demonstrates how to rebound on the defensive end.

Defending GuardsRed explains the proper techniques to defend guards.

RED ON ROUNDBALL TV SPOTS

Catch the Red on Roundball National TV spots? Integrating Red's teachings with modern day examples, you can watch several exclusively online at NBA.com.Fast Break |
Defensive Rebounds | Blocks

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Auerbach began his NBA coaching career in 1950 as head coach of the Boston Celtics. From 1959 to 1966, the Celtics won eight straight NBA championships, a streak unmatched in sports history. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1965, and in 1970, was selected as the NBA's 25th Anniversary All-Time Team coach.

When Auerbach left the Boston bench in 1966, he was the winningest coach in NBA history with 938 victories.
He was the first to use a "sixth man," he ran a simple offense of seven set plays, and he never had a league-leading scorer.

In 1980, the PBWAA named Auerbach the greatest coach in the history of the NBA.